Darrick Robles A urinary tract infection is an inflammation of the urinary tract, often caused by bacteria, which can occur in the upper or lower urinary tract. For example, a bladder infection is called a lower urinary tract infection and is derived from an upper urinary tract infection such as a urinary tract infection. B. pelvic inflammatory disease.
How is the urinary tract structured?
The urinary tract consists of the kidneys (which produce urine), ureters (connection between the kidneys and the urinary bladder), urinary bladder (collects urine), and urethra (which drains urine from the urinary bladder).
Complicated or uncomplicated urinary tract infection?
Complicated urinary tract infections can take a serious course and must be treated promptly by a doctor. If men, children or pregnant women are affected or other pre-existing conditions in addition to the urinary tract infection, e.g. B. diabetes, then one speaks of a complicated urinary tract infection.
Uncomplicated urinary tract infections are common in non-pregnant women and usually heal without problems.
Symptoms of a urinary tract infection
A bladder infection or lower urinary tract infection is usually noticeable through the following symptoms:
- Frequent urge to urinate with small amounts of urine
- Painful or difficult urination
- Burning when urinating
- labor-like pains
- Possibly blood in the urine
In the case of kidney inflammation or upper urinary tract infection, the following symptoms can occur in addition to the symptoms mentioned above:
- Fever
- flank pain
- nausea
Causes of a urinary tract infection
Our urinary tract is largely free of pathogens. Bacterial colonization of these urinary tracts usually causes an infection. Risk factors can also promote this, such as diabetes, sexual activity, pregnancy, painkillers, kidney stones, previous cystitis or hospitalization.
urinary tract infections in children
As in adults, UTIs in children are often caused by bacteria. The children often complain of pain or burning when urinating, abdominal pain, fever or vomiting. If your child shows one or more of these symptoms, you should see a doctor as soon as possible.
Diagnosis: How Can a Doctor Diagnose a UTI?
Based on the symptoms, the doctor can diagnose a urinary tract infection. Symptoms such as fever, pain, increased urination or an uncomfortable feeling in the lower abdomen suggest a urinary tract infection. Other diagnostic tools are urine test strips and ultrasound examination.
When to the doctor?
If you experience discomfort when urinating, abdominal or flank pain, have a fever or suspect you have a urinary tract infection, you should see a doctor.
Harnwegsinfekt: Therapie
In many cases, bladder infections heal on their own and may not require antibiotic treatment if heat is applied and sufficient amounts are drunk. However, an antibiotic can shorten the duration of the disease and relieve symptoms quickly.
Depending on the type of urinary tract infection (complicated or uncomplicated urinary tract infection) and the patient group (men, pregnant women, children, etc.), a suitable antibiotic therapy should be started after consultation with your doctor.
This is how Med-Healths can help with urinary tract infections
Based on your medical history, our Med-Healths doctors will help you to assess the underlying cause of a urinary tract infection and discuss suitable therapy options with you. In uncomplicated cases, a prescription can be issued.
If necessary, our Med-Healths doctor can issue a prescription,
certificate of incapacity for work or referral to a specialist.
